Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective neighborly contrast with its synonyms?

The words amicable and friendly are common synonyms of neighborly. While all three words mean "exhibiting goodwill and an absence of antagonism," neighborly implies a disposition to live on good terms with others and to be helpful on principle.

neighborly concern

When is amicable a more appropriate choice than neighborly?

The words amicable and neighborly are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, amicable implies a state of peace and a desire on the part of the parties not to quarrel.

maintained amicable relations

In what contexts can friendly take the place of neighborly?

The words friendly and neighborly can be used in similar contexts, but friendly stresses cordiality and often warmth or intimacy of personal relations.

sought friendly advice

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of neighborly The neighborly vibes offer a contrast to tensions swirling outside and around the synagogue, the only Jewish house of worship in Northern Ireland. Rosario Del Valle, Sun Sentinel, 3 June 2025 Everyday surroundings — including parks and libraries, civic associations and neighborly relationships — offer significant advantages to children even if their own family is struggling. Nora McCarthy, New York Daily News, 18 May 2025 The community of 14,000 people mourned the married father of two as a neighborly person who showed up to help others. Sophia Tareen, Chicago Tribune, 20 May 2025 The mangoes’ mischief had struck again, and my neighborly gesture had gone completely left. Dinkinish O’Connor, Saveur, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for neighborly
Recent Examples of Synonyms for neighborly
Adjective
  • Lots of natural light and warm, muted color palettes make your spaces feel comforting and inviting, just like our favorite housekeeper.
    Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2025
  • Although, the ear pads can get sweaty in warm weather and aren’t user-replaceable.
    Prakhar Khanna, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Recently sober, Felix has his own complement of bandmates, friends and friendly ex-girlfriends, including three women named Polly — Adèle Exarchopoulos plays the important one — whose history with Felix makes Jess nervous.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2025
  • But if oil prices remain middling, even friendly policies might not compel companies to significantly ramp up drilling.
    Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • The man was gifted, gracious, often generous and seldom mean-spirited.
    Bruce Fein, Baltimore Sun, 10 July 2025
  • But goodness gracious, the Rockies are only (14-36) under Schaeffer after going 7-33 under Black.
    Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 8 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Neighborly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/neighborly. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

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